1. INTRODUCTION
Ngā Kaihoe o Aotearoa (NKOA), with the support of SPARC, is developing a strategic plan for Waka Ama. This is being lead by the President and the Executive Council, with the assistance of Regional representatives.

This project is a key exercise for Waka Ama in providing strategic direction and securing a positive future for the sport. The input and involvement of all members and stakeholders will provide a crucial point of reference for the strategic plan - your input and ideas in helping to drive this forward is therefore important for this process to succeed.

2. VISION AND GOALS
The plan includes a 25 year Vision for waka ama, which will not only provide some unique challenges for Waka Ama, but some unique opportunities as well.

Waka Ama is, among other things, an inter-generational sport, and this is a point of difference that is catered for within this plan, and provides a wider context for the sport in its development over the short, medium and long term.

The strategic plan targets goals to produce results over the first 3 years, but will still have a distinct focus on achieving the 25 year vision. It speaks to all stakeholders in the sport, and needs to be owned by everyone involved in Waka Ama.

3. PROCESS
The Executive Council and Regional representatives met on 17 May to develop the first draft of the strategic plan; the result is the document which is now provided for you to read, analyse and provide feedback on.

The plan now is to meet with members in the regions and discuss the plan face to face, with the purpose being to make the plan even better than it is at present.

Meetings will be arranged to take place between the following dates:

· 14 June to 28 June 2009

Consultation will be coordinated through your regional representatives and the website, so keep checking the website or contact your regional representative for confirmation of dates for meetings in your region.

The desired outcome is to have a final draft of the strategic plan to present and ratify at the AGM on 9 August.

4. CONSULTATION GROUND RULES

In preparing for these meetings, please note that the ground rules are as follows:

"For the good of the sport"
Do what we say we will do – actions coming from meetings
Share the airspace – everyone who would like to contribute is able to
Be unconditionally constructive – whatever is said, aim to move the conversation forward
Consensus = "I can live with that and support it"
Ask for what you need

5. KEY QUESTIONS
This strategic plan is not intended to be a cure-all for every single ill or challenge within the sport. It is being developed to give our sport direction and a foundation upon which to develop and grow.

Therefore, some key questions for you to consider are:

· What is your view of the Mission, Vision and Values?

· Do the key challenges accurately reflect the main issues facing Waka Ama?

· Do you think the plan is challenging, inspiring, realistic and achievable?

· How could the plan be improved, in the best interests of waka ama?


6. WHAT ACTIONS ARE REQUIRED FROM YOU?

It is crucial that everyone has an opportunity to have input into the plan. What is needed is information, ideas and input from each region. You are encouraged to read the plan, discuss it with friends and whānau to form your ideas, come along to one of the meetings and get involved in the consultation.

One of the strengths of our sport is the passionate members, and we need you to assist us in taking the sport forward.

Kia ora rawa atu i roto i ngā manaakitanga me ngā maioha hoki.

Any Questions can be directed to
Email: [email protected]